Five of a kind: Footy pubs

Team spirit is not the only thing flowing as these game-changing watering holes show their true colours, writes Chris Canty.

21 April 2012 — 3:00am

THE ROSE HOTEL

AS IF Fitzroy FC supporters haven't experienced enough pain, now their favourite backstreet pub faces closure, with the news that it will be auctioned this month. Known for its roast of the day (try the pork, which comes with crackling, pictured), mammoth mixed grill, impromptu half-time kick to kicks and three TV screens, the Rose has remained a piece of old-school Fitzroy at a time when the suburb's identity is changing. Owner Tony Dwyer insists the business is strong and hopes the new owners will keep it as a simple grub pub for those who love their footy, but there are no guarantees. Settlement might take a few months, so head down there to watch a game while you still can … or buy it! Go the Roys!

406 Napier Street, Fitzroy, 9417 3626

THE LONDON TAVERN

FOR many it's a pilgrimage, that walk from the London Tavern through Richmond Hill to the 'G. It's part of what makes going to the football so special. A visit to the London is ideal for before-the-bounce optimism or after-the-siren misery (long-suffering Richmond supporters), but those who choose to watch the match here will be able to hear the spectators' roars in the distance, giving a new meaning to the term ''surround sound''. The front bar under the screens is position A for drinking and viewing, and the huge beer garden (one of the city's best) fits the bill for groups. As with any great pub, its parma is big and cheesy. Yellow and Black!

238 Lennox Street, Richmond, 9428 6894

The Rose Hotel in Fitzroy faces closure.

Advertisement

PERCY'S BAR & BISTRO

IT'S pubs such as this that give the Carlton Football Club a community identity. Owned by Peter ''Percy'' Jones, the four-time Carlton premiership player, it takes a certain kind of venue to look inconspicuous on a busy intersection, but that's part of its charm. A world away from artisanal pasta stores and trendy wine spots, Percy's is basically a horseshoe bar lined with old-time footy lovers and hungry Melbourne Uni students. Percy is often propped up on a stool doing crosswords, while his daughter, Georgia, is manager, and it's not uncommon to see Carlton legends dropping in for a chat, especially when a game is on (there's a TV in the front bar). The bistro out the back cooks up a great corned beef, too. We are the Navy Blues!

418 Lygon Street, Carlton, 9347 1715

THE MONA CASTLE

THIS 136-year-old backstreet gem is what one would call a true local … as long as you barrack for the Western Bulldogs. Such is its love for the club that staff wear the team's colours and owner Gary Clough is the player sponsor for club captain Matthew Boyd. Saying that, the Mona is incredibly welcoming and popular with young families with many spaces to drink, eat, bet and watch the game. We especially like the sports bar out the back and the $10 steak sanga in the front bar is a winner, though perhaps sitting out on the quiet residential street at half-time talking about the game is the highlight. Live music on Sundays is another bonus. Go Doggies!

53 Austin Street, Seddon, 9687 7636

The London Tavern in Richmond.Credit:Rebecca Hallas

THE GRACE DARLING

RATHER than being a place to watch the footy, this is what we call an after-footy pub. It's close enough to the 'G to comfortably walk and more importantly for diehard Magpie fans, the club was founded here in 1892. Today, the Smith Street crowd (friendly hipsters) have moved in, savouring the array of live music showcased upstairs and the half-price Coopers jugs during the week. On warm days the street beer garden is packed with a motley crew of characters, and when it is chilly a few open fires keep the revellers warm. The kitchen creates quality pub fare, including a roast special at weekends. This old girl is always guaranteed a crowd. Carn the Pies!